New Plastics Trade Group is Formed

International professional services and association management firm Kellen Co. has announced the formation of a Plastics Industry Division designed to coordinate technical, regulatory, public affairs and crisis communications support for companies and associations in the plastics industry.

Kellen Co., based in the United States, currently manages a number of plastics associations in Europe and North America, including the PET Resin Association (PETRA), Composite Lumber Manufacturers (CLMA), Global Acetate Manufacturers and European Manufacturers of Expanded Polystyrene.

The new division “will provide a home, expertise and resources for many companies and associations that currently operate alone or within larger organizations with potentially conflicting agendas,” says Peter Rush, chairman and chief executive of Kellen Co.

In a news release, the company says that “with offices in Europe, North America and Asia, Kellen is able to provide considerable depth of knowledge in international codes, standards and regulations applicable to the plastics industry, as well as extensive expertise with the European Union’s emerging REACH regulations and on international trade issues.”

 Kellen also touts its government affairs and media capabilities to address controversial developments in the field. “This is one of the most important industries in the United States and throughout the world,” says Rush. “It needs worldwide representation, expertise and support. Our new division will provide this.”

According to Rush, in the United States alone there are 15,000 plastics processors, resin manufacturers, mold-makers and equipment manufacturers employing more than 1 million people and with annual sales approaching $400 billion.

The new practice will be directed by Ralph Vasami, former president of Fiberlux, a developer of the use of thermoplastics in building and construction materials, along with industry veteran Allen Weidman, who was for many years director of the plastics processors divisions of the Society of the Plastics Industry.

 Those seeking more information on the new Kellen Co. division can contact Weidman at aweidman@kellencompany.com.